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Pastors make demands of city, state for low-performing schools

Following a scathing review of some low-achieving Jefferson County Public Schools, the Black Alliance for Educational Options is standing with state education commissioner, Terry Holliday.

On Friday, pastors within that group gathered to set forth their ideas for better schools.

Multiple pastors and parents were outside of Shawnee High School, a low performing JCPS school.

They made a series of demands, but their main focus was on charter schools, something the group would like to see in Louisville as early as next school year.

“Our black children and low-income white children are falling by the side every single day because our school system is failing them,” said the Rev. Jerry Stephenson with Black Alliance for Educational Options.

The pastors thanked Holliday for bringing to light what the pastors called the plight of the JCPS school system.

“If we can (have) successful schools like Manual, then Shawnee ought to be like Manual,” Stephenson said.

The members of the Black Alliance for Educational Options demanded three things from the state and the city.

They started with charter schools in Louisville, which they said is one answer that would bring immediate change.

Secondly, they want fully funded after-school programs at neighborhood churches and other organizations to give children academic support.

Finally, they requested another state audit of the school system.

“Where are the resources going?” Stephenson asked.

The group claimed money isn't going to schools like Shawnee, one of the 18 low-performing schools in the district.

A JCPS representative said that's just not true.

Shawnee High School has one of the state's highest per-person expenditure amounts because money has been given to boost achievement.

JCPS said the improvements to the schools are in the works but will take time.

Meanwhile, the pastors said they plan to reach out to Holliday and members of the general assembly next week for a meeting.

JCPS issued the following statement in response:

“Our focus at JCPS is ensuring ALL students graduate prepared for the future. We believe that through our continued collaboration with the Kentucky Department of Education in our Priority Schools, we can help students increase achievement. Each plan implemented in these schools is unique and tailored to student needs.

“By differentiating instruction through the help of data driven professional learning communities and the expansion of out-of-school-time learning opportunities for all students, we are confident we will see improved outcomes. “

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